Other Names:
Linear Alkylbenzene Sulphonic Acid, LABSA, Detergent Acid, LAS Acid
Specification Summary
- Purity: ≥96% Active Matter (industrial grade)
- Form: Dark brown viscous liquid
- CAS No.: 27176-87-0, 85536-14-7
- Molecular Formula: C₁₈H₃₀O₃S
- Molecular Weight: 326.49 g/mol
Product Description
LABSA is a dark brown, viscous liquid with a mild odor. As an anionic surfactant, it is soluble in water (exothermic upon dilution) but insoluble in most organic solvents. It is an organic weak acid with slight corrosivity, neutral pH (6–8), and excellent thermal stability. LABSA exhibits high biodegradability, strong emulsifying and foaming properties, and resistance to hard water.
LABSA Specification Table
| Property | Value/Range | Test Method/Notes |
| Appearance | Dark brown viscous liquid | Visual |
| Active Matter | ≥96% | Titration |
| Free Sulfuric Acid | ≤1.8% | Titration |
| Water Content | ≤1.5% | Karl Fischer |
| Color (10% solution) | ≤70 Klett | Klett Colorimetry |
| Non-Detergent Organic Matter (NDOM) | ≤2% | Gravimetric Analysis |
| Density (20°C) | 1.03–1.08 g/cm³ | ASTM D4052 |
| Viscosity (25°C) | 1,000–2,500 mPa·s | Brookfield Viscometer |
| Solubility | Soluble in water | Exothermic dissolution |
| pH (5% solution) | 6–8 | pH Meter |
Downloadable TDS:
A comprehensive Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is available for download, providing detailed mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties, as well as processing guidelines for polystyrene
Application Sectors and Industries of LABSA Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulfonic Acid
Detergents & Cleaning Products
LABSA is the primary surfactant in laundry powders, dishwashing liquids, and household cleaners. Its strong foaming and degreasing properties ensure effective stain removal and dirt suspension.
Personal Care
Used in shampoos, shower gels, and liquid soaps for its mildness and lathering capabilities. Enhances texture and cleaning efficiency in skincare formulations.
Industrial Cleaners
Formulates heavy-duty cleaners for machinery, engines, and industrial surfaces. Resists hard water and maintains performance in high-temperature environments.
Agriculture
Acts as a wetting agent and dispersant in pesticides and herbicides. Improves spray coverage and nutrient absorption in liquid fertilizers.
Textile Processing
Serves as a dye-leveling agent and scouring aid. Enhances fiber softness and reduces static in synthetic fabrics.
Oil & Gas
Used as an emulsifier and foaming agent in drilling fluids. Prevents corrosion and stabilizes emulsions in crude oil processing.
Paints & Coatings
Improves pigment dispersion and stabilizes latex emulsions. Enhances adhesion and water resistance in architectural paints.
Leather Tanning
Aids in fat liquoring and dye penetration during leather processing. Produces soft, durable finishes for footwear and upholstery.
Paper Manufacturing
Acts as a de-inking agent and dispersant in pulp processing. Enhances paper smoothness and printability.
Construction
Formulates concrete admixtures to improve workability and reduce water content. Enhances durability in cementitious products.
Packaging Types
- 200 kg Plastic Drums: Sealed, corrosion-resistant containers for safe transport and storage.
- IBC Totes (1,000 liters): Reusable intermediate bulk containers for high-volume industrial users.
- Bulk Tankers: Insulated stainless-steel tankers for large-scale deliveries to manufacturing plants.
- Custom Quantities: Available in smaller containers (25–50 kg) for laboratory or specialty applications.
LABSA is a versatile, cost-effective surfactant critical to modern cleaning, manufacturing, and industrial processes. Its biodegradability, high performance, and compatibility with diverse formulations make it indispensable across sectors. For detailed technical specifications, handling guidelines, and safety protocols, request the downloadable TDS.
